I study a neural mechanism that is hypothesized to underlie the generation of REM sleep muscle atonia in the Peever lab. If I’m not working on my research, you’ll likely find me climbing, hiking, or exploring somewhere new.

Hey! I’m Amir and I serve as the Communications Director for the CSBGU. I am a 2nd year Ph.D. Student in the McCourt lab, studying the molecular and structural evolution of parasitic receptors… cool eh?!

I study stress-related calcium signaling in plants, with and emphasis during pathogen defense and analysis of those possible defense components involved in calcium signaling. On my spare time, I love to cook and find new places to eat.

Hi, my name is Conrad and I am your First Year Rep for this upcoming year. I am a 2nd-year Master’s student in the Guttman lab studying the evolution of bacteria in children with cystic fibrosis. I am excited to get to know all of you and look forward to serving as your First Year Rep.

I’m a PhD candidate in the Plotnikov Lab studying how cells sense the stiffness of their surroundings. I’m really excited to be part of the council this year as a CPDO! I believe that students in our department collectively have a lot of knowledge that we can synthesize and harness to help us all grow together.

Hi, I’m Varshinie, a *cough* third year Masters student studying anoxia tolerance, and your GSU Rep for the year. When I’m not slaving away at the lab, I enjoy hiking, volunteering at the wildlife centre and photography. Don’t be shy to come say hi!

My research involves studying the role of an E3 ligase in the development and stress response pathways of the model plant Arabidopsis. Outside the lab, I like to read, teach, and learn to cook new recipes.